How is Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Empowering Lakhpati Didis in Gujarat?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Empowerment of women through financial independence.
- Success stories of Lakhpati Didis inspire others.
- Government commitment to gender equality.
- Importance of skill training for rural women.
- Role of self-help groups in economic upliftment.
New Delhi, July 19 (NationPress) Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Directorate of Groundnut Research in Junagadh, Gujarat on Saturday. During the visit, he assessed the institute's operations and engaged with farmers and ‘Didis’ from self-help groups (SHGs).
On this occasion, Chouhan released a collection of 50 remarkable success stories of Lakhpati Didis, women who generate over Rs 10 lakh annually under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). He also presented the institute’s Annual Report for 2024.
Extending his Raksha Bandhan greetings to the Lakhpati Didis, Chouhan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering SHG women to become Lakhpatis (millionaires). “Every woman should strive for self-reliance, economic strength, and independence,” he stated.
Chouhan emphasized that 1.5 crore women have already achieved the status of Lakhpati Didis, with the government aiming to reach 2 crore by August 15. The number of Lakhpati Didis continues to increase swiftly.
“SHG women are transforming narratives by confronting gender biases and fostering social change,” he remarked. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions greater participation of women in economic endeavors.”
He further noted that with adequate skill training, timely access to bank credit, and necessary infrastructure, women in rural areas can achieve remarkable outcomes. “Lakhpati Didis are crucial in promoting local products on both national and global platforms.”
In his closing remarks, Chouhan commended the contributions of women and inspired them to “keep progressing with determination. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stands behind you to provide all possible support. Initiatives are in motion to boost women’s roles in the industrial sector. The efforts of women will contribute to a ‘Viksit Bharat’. Wishing you all success in the future.”